Get Inspired

Because I'm in the Leadership program at my ATA school, my Instructor asked me to think of a way to serve others in my town. I decided to pick up trash at a park near my house so that kids like me would have a clean place to play. My Mom and Dad and even my little brother helped. It was kinda gross, but I had fun. I really like helping people!– Paxton Thomas, Yellow Belt, 9 years old

Leadership Profiles

Dr. Brett Gunnink

2nd Degree Black Belt

Level 1 Instructor Trainee, Cunningham's ATA

2006 Black Belt of the Year

Civil Engineering department head, Montana State University

Black Belt Service Project:

Organized Board Break-A-Thon that raised enough funds to build an entire school for girls in a Pakistan village through Central Asia Institute (Sept 2006)

Why this Project:

"I met Greg (Mortenson, Director of the Central Asia Institute) over dinner at an ATA tournament. I learned about his remarkable story that evening, and later after reading his book 'Three Cups of Tea' I decided I wanted to help this guy!"

About this Project:

"We held the Break-A-Thon at a local mall and several businesses sponsored us. The entire school was involved, with students getting pledges for the boards they planned to break. Greg was there. We did pledge breaks and challenge breaks, and allowed spectators to break for a donation."

Favorite Taekwondo Benefits:

"Most important is that I always feel good after Taekwondo training. It is great stress relief and great fun. I love the challenge. I love the raw visceral feeling that accompanies a great round of sparring."

"I am a better martial artist as a result of teaching it to others."

About your Instructor:

"I number Mr. and Mrs. Cunningham among my favorite people. I greatly admire Mr. C's talents and accomplishments as a martial artist and as a persevering business owner. He has created a school and teaching environment that I very much want to be a part of. In my opinion that demonstrates great leadership."